What happens to the body during fasting?

What happens to the body during fasting?

When we fast, at about eight hours after our last meal, our bodies start to use energy stores through glucose and fat to keep our blood glucose levels normal. For most people this is not harmful.

Some people with diabetes may not be able to keep their glucose levels normal when fasting and experience hypo and hyperglycemia. 

If you have diabetes type 1 or 2, and are fasting, especially if you take medications for diabetes, your body will utilize more glucose than normal increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.

You may also experience hyperglycemia when your body resorts to producing glucose from the liver itself.

Hyperglycemia can cause dehydration due to lack of fluid intake. This can result in higher blood viscosity which can increase the chances of blood clots.